Re: Day hiker interested in camping, where to start?

My first backpacking gear was from Diamond Brand and LL Bean as I recall. Plus I did use my Therm-A-Rest self-inflating mat (which I no longer have-too BIG name).

Since that time, seeing Diamond Brand no longer makes backpacking tents (real sad if you ask me) I got the majority of my backpacking gear from ALPS Mountaineering in New Haven Missouri. My first tent I got from ALPS was the two person Taurus. I use ALPS packs also along with their sleeping bags. Good stuff. Holds up well.

I will admit I like the gear I see from The Backside and SunnyRec too. SunnyRec makes very comfortable self-inflating mats. The Hexagrip is my favorite. Check out Cabela's also. They got some nice gear. Their own brand is excellent and very affordable. I use their hiking boots. Very comfortable and durable.

Campmor is a good place if one likes those BIG name brands. However they do carry their own brand name rain gear and hiking clothing, which I found to be very good. For a decent (but affordable waterproof/breathable rain jacket) I would suggest the Campmor Storm Sphere. I have one and it keeps me very dry plus it "breathes" fairly well.

Just my 2 cents. :)